You can install the game without installing StarForce. The first time you start a StarForce game with the original executable it installs StarForce and makes you reboot. Now the StarForce virus is in your system.
On the other hand, if you install the game and then replace the exe with the crack, then you can play without installing StarForce.
In other words, never run the original exe of a StarForce game if you want to protect your system.
EDIT: But if you want to make a point and support the boycott of SF, don't buy any games with this protection and make sure you tell the developers and publishers why you didn't buy it.
I've told a half-dozen game companies that I didn't buy their game because of SF. Even some I had no intention of buying anyway, hehe.
